A magneto-optical trap (MOT) is known worldwide as the staple technology for producing cold and confined ensembles of neutral atoms. Conceptually simple, this device is essential in the preparation stages of highly involved tasks, e.g., Rydberg atom quantum computing [1]}, [2]} and Bose-Einstein condensation [3]}, [4]}. Additionally, the limit of a large atom number \(N\)  presents a wide array of interesting physics, such as random lasing [5]}, [6]}, Anderson localization [7]}, [8]}, subradiance [9]}-[10]}, superradiance [11]}-[12]} as well as spontaneous oscillations that bear similarities to plasma and stellar phenomena [13]}, [14]}. The last example falls into the category of MOT instabilities, which are, by their dynamic nature, out of thermal equilibrium. In the stable MOT regime, however, the thermodynamical considerations can be complex, requiring handling with particular care.
